Getting the Starting Point Right: Prevention of Skiving and Fibular Cortical Breach During Suture Button Placement for Syndesmotic Ankle Injuries

Abstract

The use of suture button (SB) devices in the treatment of syndesmotic ankle injuries is increasing. These constructs have demonstrated better syndesmotic reduction, improved clinical outcomes, and lower rates of hardware removal compared with screw fixation. However, placing a SB device without a fibular plate can be technically challenging. In this technique tip, we use an illustrative case to demonstrate a technique tip that minimizes the risk of anterior or posterior cortical breach of the fibula and helps facilitate more accurate placement of a SB device.

Levels of Evidence: Level V: Expert opinion